Since the advent of the first online casino in 1994, gambling entertainment on the internet has undergone significant transformations. Initially, developers sought to transfer land-based machines to the online sphere while preserving their mechanics and characteristics. However, nowadays, providers create entirely unique games with a plethora of diverse themes, features, and operational parameters. Nevertheless, despite the variability of choices and the integration of progressive mechanics, classical slots—commonly known as one-armed bandits—continue to enjoy popularity.
Origins of Their Prototypes
The first land-based slot machine, bearing a resemblance to the familiar slot machines of today, was developed by American inventor Charles Fey. It was aptly named the Liberty Bell, symbolizing the struggle of the United States for independence from Britain. It featured a mechanism with three reels set in motion by a special lever. The reels displayed simple symbols such as fruits and cards. Later, these images transitioned to other machines, including online slots.
Contrary to Fey's expectations of a warm reception for his creation, slots soon garnered a bad reputation due to their extremely low payout rates. Because of this, and also due to the presence of a lever in the mechanism, these machines became known as one-armed bandits.
Later, as gambling became regulated on a legislative level, the payout percentage of these machines was increased. The construction also changed, with results being determined by a computerized random number generator rather than a mechanical mechanism. However, the appearance of the machines remained almost the same.
Features of Classical Slots
The main characteristics that allow a machine to be classified as classical include a simple design and interface. Only standard symbols are used, such as cards, fruits, and bars. The control panel consists of just a few buttons, allowing players to select the spin cost, adjust the number of lines, and start spinning.
Among other features of classical slots are:
- A small number of paylines, usually not exceeding 10.
- A small playing field. Symbols are arranged on three reels, each containing a similar number of symbols. The playing field itself has a 3x3 format.
- Lack of complex functions. Payouts are primarily expected in regular spins. Additional mechanics may include a gamble feature or simple bonus rounds. Respins, free spins, stacked symbols, and wilds are usually absent.
The main goal of users playing classical slots is to collect paying combinations. If identical symbols form a line, a payout is awarded. Due to the small number of paylines, the payouts for forming combinations are quite noticeable. Prizes almost always cover the size of the bet.
Examples of classical slots
This type of slot machine has an important advantage - simple rules and understandable mechanics. Thanks to simple mathematical algorithms underlying all machine functions, users can adhere to various betting strategies.
| Title | Provider | RTP, % | Volatility | Number of lines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident | Igrosoft | 95 | Low | 9 |
| Fairy Land 2 | Belatra | 98 | Average | 9 |
| Grand Spinn Superpot | NetEnt | 96,21 | High | 1 |
| Ultra Hold and Spin | Pragmatic Play | 95 | High | 5 |
| Ultra Hot Deluxe | Novomatic | 95,17 | Average | 5 |
| Hyper Strike | Microgaming | 96,24 | Average | 20 |
| Blue Diamond | Red Tiger | 95 | High | 1 |
| Hot Spin | iSoftBet | 96 | Average | 20 |
| Fruit Cocktail 2 | Igrosoft | 95 | Average | 9 |
| Crazy Monkey 2 | Igrosoft | 95 | Low | 9 |
Many developers are involved in creating classical slots. Among the global companies worth mentioning are NetEnt, Novomatic, and Microgaming. Here are a few popular games developed by them.
All of these slot machines can be tried out in demo mode before playing for real money. In the trial version, all features and mechanics are preserved, but virtual chips are used for bets. Their balance is unlimited. While you can't win real money with them, the risk of losing funds is also absent.
To quickly find classical slots in an online casino, filters or separate categories for such machines are often provided.
